John Ashton, the veteran actor best known for his iconic role as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the blockbuster Beverly Hills Cop franchise, has passed away at the age of 76. Ashton’s passing was confirmed by his manager, Alan Somers, who remembered him as a devoted family man and talented actor.
Ashton’s breakout role in the 1984 film Beverly Hills Cop, opposite Eddie Murphy’s Detective Axel Foley, cemented his place in Hollywood history. He went on to reprise his role in three sequels, including the latest installment, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, which was released on Netflix in July of this year.
A native of Springfield, Massachusetts, Ashton was born on February 22, 1948, and grew up in Connecticut. He began his acting career in the early 1970s, landing his first role in the 1973 film An Eye for an Eye. Ashton’s early work included appearances in popular TV series such as Emergency!, Columbo, and MASH, as well as roles in films like Borderline and The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension.
Throughout his career, Ashton demonstrated his versatility as an actor, taking on a wide range of roles in film and television. He was also a passionate individual, with a love for reading, golf, and sports, particularly the New York Yankees and New York Giants.
Ashton is survived by his wife, Robin Hoye, two children, three step-children, and a grandson. His family and friends will deeply miss him, but his legacy as a talented actor and loving family man will live on. In a statement, his manager Alan Somers said, “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his loved ones and his impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Ashton passed away at his home in Ft. Collins, Colorado, surrounded by his loved ones.
